The survey of 1,484 leaders of small and midsize businesses shows confidence decreasing from the 14-year peak set in late 2017, following the passage of the tax cut legislation. The Vistage CEO Confidence Index was 103 in the Q3 2018, reversing the entire gain recorded in the past three quarters.

Most of the recent decline was due to an anticipated slowdown in economic growth, as well as a slight decline in revenue and profit expectations. Important to note, however, that CEOs’ expectations for revenues and profits were still quite robust.

Q3 2018 Vistage CEO Confidence Index highlights for the Chicago Area:

15% of CEOs expect the economy to improve in the year ahead (vs. 25% nationally)

47% of CEOs expect to increase investments in the year ahead (vs. 50% nationally)

68% of CEOs expect to increase revenue in the year ahead (vs. 75% nationally)

56% of CEOs plan to expand their workforce in the next year (vs. 63% nationally)

55% of CEOs thought the national economy had improved in the past year (vs. 64% nationally)

60% of CEOs expect rising proﬁts in the year ahead (vs. 61% nationally)

On November 14, my Vistage CEO group is hosting one of our semi-annual guest days. If you or someone you know would like to learn more about Vistage, this is a low-key way to meet our members and listen to one of our top speakers, Andrea Simon who asks “Who will be your customers in three years?” Please contact me directly for an invite: Elisa K Spain.